What is this medication for?

Albuterol and ipratropium belong to the family of
medications known as bronchodilators.
Together, they are used to treatchronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a chronic lung disease that makes it
difficult to breathe. These medications work by opening the airways to make
breathing easier.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

What form(s) does this medication come in?

Duoneb by Dey is available as:

solution for inhalation

0.083% albuterol and 0.017% ipratropium

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

How should I use this medication?

Inhaler: The usual adult dose is 2 inhalations (also referred to as puffs) 4 times a day. Additional inhalations may be taken as required; however, the maximum dose is 12 inhalations in 24 hours. You should "test-spray" 3 times before using this medication for the first time and in cases where the aerosol has not been used for more than 24 hours.

The contents of the inhaler are under pressure. It should not be punctured or overheated. Store at room temperature. Avoid excessive humidity. Do not allow the medication to enter your eyes. If contact occurs, flush eyes with plenty of water.

Inhalation solution: The
inhalation solution is designed for use with a nebulizer, a machine that delivers medications to the lungs by
pumping the medication through a mask or mouthpiece. The usual recommended dose
is one vial 4 times daily, with up to 2 extra doses (each dose is one vial) per
day. Each vial should be used only once and then discarded. The inhalation
solution should not be used if it is discolored. Store at room temperature. Do
not allow the medication to enter your eyes. If contact occurs, flush eyes with
plenty of water.

The action of this medication should last 4 to 5 hours or longer. It should not be used more frequently than recommended. Do not increase the dose or frequency of use without consulting your doctor. If you find that treatment with this medication becomes less effective for symptomatic relief, your symptoms become worse, and/or you need to use the product more frequently than usual, you should seek medical attention immediately. While you are taking this medication, other inhaled drugs should be taken only as directed by your physician.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

Who should NOT take this medication?

Do not use this medication if you:

are allergic to albuterol, ipratropium, or any ingredients of this medication

are allergic to atropine or related medications

are allergic to soya lecithin or related food products such as soybeans and peanuts

The contents of this health site are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition.